There are many steps that are part of a hearing aid evaluation. If you suspect that you might need a hearing aid, you will first need to have a hearing evaluation.
Initial Hearing Evaluation
If you suspect that you might need a hearing aid, the journey starts with a thorough hearing evaluation. This assessment includes taking a detailed case history to understand how your hearing challenges affect not only your daily life but also the lives of your family members. Questions may be asked about the onset and nature of the hearing loss, the presence of tinnitus (ringing in your ears), and any experiences of dizziness. Providing some information about your general health history will also be a crucial part of this stage.
Understanding Your Hearing Loss
The results of your hearing test will outline the sounds you may be missing or hearing improperly, but it’s your personal insights about your daily life that form the basis for a truly comprehensive hearing evaluation. If you are a candidate for hearing aids or if other medical conditions need to be addressed first, you may be referred to a medical doctor specializing in ear disorders. This referral is often an essential step in the process of hearing aid examination.
Selecting the Right Hearing Aid
Should your hearing test reveal a permanent hearing loss, a hearing aid may be recommended for one or both ears. Your hearing care professional will explain what sounds you are missing and how hearing aids can assist you. During this appointment, you’ll have the chance to see, touch, and in some cases, even listen to different hearing aids. Together with your hearing professional, you’ll choose the hearing aid(s) that best fit your hearing loss, lifestyle, and budget. Remember, the final decision on which hearing aid(s) to purchase is entirely up to you.
Finalizing Your Hearing Aid Selection
After making your decision, impressions of your ears may be taken if you’ve chosen custom hearing aids or behind-the-ear models requiring earmolds. These hearing aids must usually be ordered from the manufacturer and then specifically programmed by your hearing professional to meet your unique hearing needs. This process can take a few weeks, so please don’t feel disheartened if you don’t receive your hearing aids on the same day as your evaluation. Your patience will be rewarded with a solution tailored to enhance your hearing experience.